Robyn Patterson, founder of Mack Media Relations and a prominent leader in the public relations industry, was named Visionary of the Year after spearheading a successful fundraising campaign that amassed over $163,400 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). This campaign honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, passion, and dedication to making a meaningful impact in their communities.
“Raising money for LLS was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done but it is also one of my proudest achievements. I’m proud of every dollar my team raised and can’t wait to see the powerful change it sparks in our community,” Patterson said.
Through this initiative, community members and changemakers are challenged to raise funds that drive lifesaving blood cancer research, enhance patient support, and fuel advocacy efforts to improve treatment access and outcomes.
The Visionary of the Year title is awarded to the candidate who raises the most funds, but every contribution made throughout the campaign helps LLS toward its ultimate goal: a world without blood cancer.
More on the Campaign
Visionaries of the Year is a 10-week philanthropic competition hosted by LLS, uniting community leaders to raise critical funds for blood cancer research, patient support, and advocacy.
This year’s campaign concluded with a Grand Finale Celebration at Talking Stick Resort in May, where a collective $610,655 was raised by ten candidates: Patterson, Nick Calderone, Isaac Radcliffe, Jennifer Dinh, Philip Johnson, Bailey Davis, Harrison Pham, Tyler Anderson, and Yijee Jeong and Allison Woodworth (who was named runner-up).
“The remarkable dedication shown by Robyn and all candidates demonstrates the power of community in fighting blood cancers,” said Kaitlyn Strelow, Campaign Development Director at LLS Phoenix. “The $610,655 raised will make a difference in the lives of patients who are fighting for their lives every day.”
Robyn’s Mission: Turning Influence into Impact
Throughout her career, Patterson has built a reputation for elevating brands and businesses through the art of strategic storytelling. As the founder of Mack Media Relations, she’s helped countless clients tell their stories in meaningful ways that drive connection and growth. Now, she’s channeling that same passion and influence to advocate for those facing some of life’s greatest challenges.
“Being named a candidate for Visionary of the Year is incredibly humbling,” Patterson said. “It’s a privilege to stand alongside so many dedicated individuals working toward a common goal. This campaign is about more than just raising funds; it’s about raising hope for those battling these diseases and supporting groundbreaking research that saves lives.”
For Robyn, the fight against blood cancer is deeply personal. She has seen loved ones and community members affected by this devastating disease. Throughout her campaign, she called on her network of colleagues, clients, friends, and family to help amplify the cause and contribute in any way they can. Together, through community action and leadership, Visionary candidates like Robyn are helping to create a future where blood cancer is no longer a life-threatening diagnosis. Learn more at llsvisionaries.org.
